Law

Law

Emotions

Emotions

How You Feel

Acting Out

Feeling Better

When To Get Help

FAQ

FAQ

Q & A

Q:

I'm feeling really upset and confused about my parents separating. Is this normal?

A:

It's natural — and entirely normal — to experience some intense emotions. You will feel better over time. There are lots of ways to help yourself feel better, and people who can help you if you need it.

Q:

Do I have to take sides, or choose one parent over the other?

A:

No, you don't. You have the right to love and be loved by both parents.

If you are feeling pressured to take sides, and you feel you are caught in the middle of your parents' problems, tell them.

Q:

If my parents divorce, will the same thing happen to me?

A:

Many teens whose parents separate feel anxious about their own relationships in the future. But just because your parents separate doesn't mean the same thing will happen to you. What happens in your relationships will be up to you, not your parents!

Q:

My parents are splitting up. Why?

A:

There are many reasons why parents decide to separate. And with each couple, there might be one main reason, or a whole pile of reasons.

Parents usually try very hard to solve their problems before they take action. If you're not sure what your parents' reasons are for separating, you can always ask.

Q:

Who decides who I will live with?

A:

Ideally, your parents will make the decisions together about who you will live with and how that will work. Your opinion should be taken into account.

If they can't decide themselves, they might go to a mediator for help in reaching an agreement. Or they might have to go to court and have a judge make the decisions for them.

Teen Guide

Welcome to A Teen Guide to Parental Separation and Divorce. If your parents have recently separated or divorced (or you think they may be about to), or you have a friend in that situation, this site is for you.

Parental separation and divorce are hard on teens. One thing that can help is information about what separation and divorce mean in Canada, and how they might affect you.

The purpose of this site is to provide you with that information. The site is not intended to provide therapy, support or legal advice.

Do you have younger brothers or sisters? If so, get them to check out the Kids Guide.

Families Change

Separation and divorce have a profound impact on all family members. Loss of security is often coupled with intense feelings of grief. The stress can be overwhelming for kids, teens and parents.

This website can help. Get age-appropriate information to guide you through separation and divorce. Be sure the information is correct for your province. Select your age group and explore content in other sections too.